Expert reveals five critical steps to take if US is hit with nuclear bomb as WW3 fears grow

Fears around World War 3 breaking out remain high and an expert has outlined what Americans should do should a nuclear bomb drop in the country.

Dr Patricia Lewis, former research director at the International Security Programme has previously warned ‘the threat of nuclear weapons is resurging in a manner not seen since the height of the Cold War’.

This is reflected in comments from world leaders about their willingness to use nuclear weapons.

Russia’s Vladimir Putin has previously warned the US he will consider using nuclear weapons if they continue to support Ukraine.

But more recently, as things appear to escalate in the Middle East, clashes between India and Pakistan continue, and the Ukraine and Russia war is ongoing, many people feel more on edge about the possibility of a world conflict breaking out.

And as many nations have access to nuclear weapons, it is only natural that fears are centered around their use in the modern age.

This is particularly fitting right now, as the US, under Donald Trump’s leadership has been very involved with the conflict between Iran and Israel.

While Iran is not believed to have a nuclear weapon, its allies, China and Russia, do, ultimately meaning if things escalated further both nations could get involved.

The US' involvement in the conflict between Israel and Iran has people fearful of a major global conflict (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

What is the likelihood of the US being hit with a nuclear bomb?

With that said, what are the chances of the US being struck with a nuclear bomb?

Unfortunately, there is no perfect way to work out the percentage chance of the likelihood of America been struck by an enemy nuclear bomb.

The Doomsday clock, which symbolizes a global catastrophe and the end of civilization if it strikes midnight, is ‘closer than ever’ before from doing just that.

The latest update, from January 28 2025, is only 89 seconds from midnight and warned that ‘extremely dangerous trends’ regarding nuclear war continue.

Thankfully, what we do know is that, despite the warnings from enemy nations in the past, countries are reluctant to use them, owing to the fact that it could see themselves struck by nukes as a result.

This is often referred to as M.A.D: Mutually Assured Destruction.

Countries have often warned of other ways they could attack the US, rather than nuclear weapons, including the user of ‘sleeper cells’.

So, while a nuke can’t be completely ruled out, the U.S. Department of Defense has insisted it is ‘ready’ to deter enemy nations and respond should an attack ever happen.

Which countries have nuclear weapons?

As far as we know, there are a total of 9 countries with nuclear weapons.

They are:

• Russia
• United States
• China
• France
• United Kingdom
• Pakistan
• India
• Israel
• North Korea

Some of these nuclear weapons are held within ally nations, and this in itself has often caused tensions between countries.

There are 9 countries with nuclear weapons and they are believed to be devastating(Getty Stock Image)

How to survive a nuclear bomb attack, according to experts

The International Commission on Radiological Protection has outlined just how crucial preparation is in the event of a nuclear attack and broken down five key things that could end up saving your life and the lives of others.

1)Being aware of 'potential shelters at home, work, school, and while commuting'

This one is pretty self explanatory, if nuclear bombs began dropping, areas that used to be might not be so safe anymore.

While radiation could later reach areas close to you, there would also be the possibility of other bombs dropping in your local area.

So it is best to get to any safe shelters that could potentially protect you from this.

2) Stocking up on essentials in shelters

Modern society will shift dramatically in the event of a nuclear weapon strike in the US, so having your local or personal shelter well stocked can be the difference between surviving a few days and the foreseeable future.

3) Learning first aid skills

Depending on where the nuclear weapons strike, the possibility of getting to a doctor or the hospital could be very low.

Being prepared can be the difference between life and death (Getty Stock Image)

This would mean that small injuries and other health issues may need to be resolved by yourself or with the help of a small group of people.

Being able to rely on certified professionals in an official setting might become a thing of the past so best to be able to resolve common issues.

In addition to this, the strikes themselves will likely cause much death and destruction so being able to deal with burns and other traumas may become invaluable.

4) Formulating a plan with loved ones

In the event of a strike or a major conflict breaking out communication with loved ones may become very difficult.

And going on long quests to find them may not always be the best choice of action as it can expose you to deadly radiation.

It can be advantageous to have a general plan ahead of the strikes on what you will do as the chances are that you might not be together in the event of a strike.

5) Using name tags

This one is likely overlooked but following a catastrophic event, panic will be widespread and separations can happen.

The guide recommends attaching name tags to the clothing of small children to assist in them being located if separated.